Master Sergeant STEPHEN M. HANLEY was born on October 23rd 1947 and died of cancer on August 21st 1992 at age 44. Steve enlisted in Company A, 2/19 SF Gp RIARNG on February 21st 1968. He completed the SFQC in 1969. He participated in numerous CONUS and OCONUS exercises and training missions to include locations in Panama and Thailand. He was a Master Parachutist, and was awarded the SF Tab and the Royal Thai Army Parachute Badge. Steve was a natural leader. His six foot four inch frame was accompanied by a smile that was as wide as he was tall. He was chairman of the Rules Committee and Chief Judge for the Rhode Island Army National Guard International Static Line Parachute Competition (Leapfest). Steve retired after 22 years of service. He had an AS degree in Mechanical Engineering and a BS in Industrial Technology. Steve was a sales engineer. A military funeral was conducted by the men of Company A under the supervision of SGM Dennis Gardiner. Major Larry Pezza, Commander Co A, presented the flag to Steve’s widow Julie. Members of SFA Chapter XLVIII participated in the funeral. In addition to Julie, Steve is survived by two daughters: Krista and Rachael and two sons: Matthew and Michael. Steve is buried in South Cemetery, Tolland, CT.
